Links Trust to Acquire Eighteenth-Century Market Street Building

St Andrews Links Trust, the centuries-old foundation that oversees St Andrews’ seven public golf courses — including the world-famous Old Course — has confirmed they submitted plans to Fife Council on Thursday 25 September to repurpose a historic building at 70 Market Street into a ‘Home of Golf’ retail and visitor hub. 

If approved, renovations on the site are expected to commence in the coming months, with a projected opening set for March 2026. The development marks the latest step in the Trust’s efforts to expand its presence in the heart of St Andrews while providing new facilities for both golfers and tourists.

The ‘Home of Golf’ brand within St Andrews Links represents the customer-facing sector of the charity. Amenities include course access, retail, dining, and the Golf Academy. The launch of the shop will allow for a multipurpose space to cater to users who access these golf facilities.

The 1860s Grade C-listed building was previously occupied by the VisitScotland iCentre, which closed earlier this year. According to the Trust, the Market Street venue will become a multipurpose space designed not only to serve visitors accessing golf facilities but also to enhance the town’s role as a global centre for golf tourism.

The Links Trust communications team told The Saint: “The Links Trust is committed to continuing an element of information provision for visitors through collaboration with Fife Council, as well as an engagement hub for Links Ticket Holders and local residents.” 

Alongside information services, the shop will allow ticket holders and visitors to reserve playing time on the courses, purchase company merchandise, and make enquiries — offering an in-person point to navigate the Links’ seven-course system.

Photo by Maria Ebrahim